Welcome to our weekly column in which a topic of interest, piece of news, relevant opinion, or general request for feedback is presented. We’ll offer the topic du jour and accompanying question, and you have the opportunity to respond with your thoughts.
Simply fill out the form below. A collection of each week’s responses will appear in the following week’s column.
View the responses to "2025 Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Goals Are Unlikely to be Met" here.
Publisher reserves the right to edit responses for clarity and publish online and/or in our print publications.
Please let us know your thoughts!
This week’s Feedback Friday topic is:
Whose Authority Comes First? (Mask Mandates, etc.)
In the past two weeks, Anne Arundel County residents have experienced a public power struggle between their County Council, the County Executive, and County Health Officer Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman. The debate is about a mandate—specifically the County Executive and Health Officer’s indoor mask mandate, enacted 12/31 and expiring one week later on 1/7. The County Council did not approve the extension of the mandate beyond that week. Immediately thereafter, Dr. Kalyanaraman issued a public safety order overriding the council and extending the mask mandate to 1/31, or whenever he decides to lift the order. This has residents wondering who exactly has the authority to issue or approve mandates? Is the elected body of officials that represent them OR appointed officials? And many constituents are also asking, “Should I really wear a mask indoors or not?”
Similar scenarios regarding mandates and who has the authority to issue them have played out similarly in jurisdictions state- and nation-wide.
Our questions to you are simply:
What are your thoughts on this situation; and did you know that appointed officials can override elected officials’ authority?
Please share your thoughts by filling out this form.
Last week, we asked you about the how the 2025 Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Goals Are Unlikely to be Met and you responded! Here is a sampling of reader responses. To read more, click here:
It has to hurt to not comply. A child with bad behavior and no consequences continues to exhibit those bad behaviors. Choose, carrot or stick, maybe a little of both!
August Pasquale, Severna Park
In Maryland the Chesapeake Bay is not our backyard, it is our front yard. It needs to be clean, beautiful, and respected for everyone to enjoy. If your business, farm, or home is polluting the bay, shame on you. Stop now and fix it. The bay's front yard needs a sign saying, "Pick-up after yourself."
Paul Bollinger, Annapolis
